PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Prefers bright indirect sunlight; tolerates partial shade and avoids intense midday sun that can scorch fronds
Watering
Requires constant access to still, dechlorinated freshwater; avoid stagnant water with excessive nutrient buildup
Temperature
Thrives in 15–25°C; can tolerate brief dips to 10°C but cannot survive freezing temperatures
Characteristics
- Fronds: Paired oval floating fronds, bright green, with fine water-repellent hairs
- Submerged Structures: Modified root-like fronds anchor the plant and absorb nutrients from water
- Growth Habit: Dense, rapid-spreading mat that covers still water surfaces
Care Guide
Watering
Maintain consistent water levels; top up with dechlorinated water as needed
Fertilization
Diluted aquatic plant fertilizer every 2 weeks. Use only low-nitrate aquatic fertilizer to avoid promoting algae
Dechlorinated aquarium water runoff：Mix 1 part aquarium water change runoff with 10 parts pond water to provide gentle nutrients without algal bloomsPruning
- Thin dense frond mats to prevent oxygen depletion in underlying water
- Remove brown, decaying fronds regularly to maintain water clarity
- Separate overgrown clumps to control spread and prevent overcrowding
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: No recorded toxicity to cats
Humans: No known toxicity to humans
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental aquatic cover; provides shelter for small freshwater fish and invertebrates
